Helming secures funding for FLCC machinist program

Senator Pam Helming announced that she has secured $68,000 in grant funding for Finger Lakes Community College (FLCC) to purchase manufacturing equipment.

This equipment will be used as part of the College’s advanced manufacturing training program to prepare graduates for positions as entry-level machinists at local Upstate New York companies. The grant funding has been secured through the State and Municipal Facilities Program (SAM).

“From Currier Plastics in Auburn to ITT/Goulds Pumps in Seneca Falls, from GW Lisk in Clifton Springs to Optimax Systems in Ontario, and several others in between, the Wayne-Finger Lakes region is home to many manufacturing companies that are growing, thriving, and succeeding. However, one concern I hear over and over from these businesses is the need for a qualified, capable workforce to meet the demands of the industry and fill the jobs these businesses are creating. Young people today can obtain a rewarding, satisfying career without acquiring a four-year college degree and the student loan debt that comes with it. Instead, they can enter the technical fields and trades and join one of the fastest-growing sectors in our region, state, and nation. But first, they need to gain the skills and knowledge required for these positions. That is why I am proud to partner with Finger Lakes Community College and help the College purchase this equipment that is vital to the continued economic success and job growth of our region. This equipment will give students the hands-on experience necessary to enter the workforce with a competitive edge,” Senator Helming said.

With this funding, FLCC will be able to purchase a Haas Toolroom CNC mill and Haas Toolroom CNC lathe. Both pieces of equipment will allow the College’s training program to better educate and prepare its students for work after graduation.

FLCC President Dr. Robert Nye said, “The students in the FLCC Advanced Manufacturing Machinist Program are the artisans of the 21st century. They are going to be making precision components that go into the high-tech products that drive our economy. We are grateful for our partnerships with Senator Helming, ITT Goulds Pumps, and G.W. Lisk in providing training programs that give students important, meaningful careers.”